JLP proposes tax credits for employers under Wellness Plan
Published:Friday | February 19, 2016 | 3:16 PM
The Jamaica Labour Party is promising tax credits for employers under a national health insurance scheme dubbed 'The Wellness Plan' to provide basic health insurance for all Jamaicans.
The party's 2016 election manifesto says the credits will be provided on health insurance premiums paid by employers and employees.
The document notes that the scheme will be introduced in two phases.
The first phase will target the elderly, poor and vulnerable persons.
Beneficiaries will receive benefits for doctors’ visits, hospital outpatient visits and eye exams.
The JLP explains that the second phase will be extended to persons aged 35-60.
Meanwhile, the JLP says a committee of stakeholders will be established to make appointments in the health sector.
The party says this step would be aimed at reducing political interference in the appointment of regional and hospital leadership.
The issue of political appointments was raised during the dead babies scandal last year following the response of the regional boards.